Scott Hazlett, a longtime educator and current administrator with Hillsborough County Public Schools, has been arrested on drug-related charges, according to authorities in Palm Harbor, Florida.
Hazlett, who recently took over as the Principal of Leto High School, was taken into custody following a law enforcement investigation. Details surrounding the nature of the charges have not yet been fully released to the public, but sources confirm that they are connected to possession or involvement with illegal narcotics.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the Hillsborough County education community, where Hazlett has served in multiple leadership roles over nearly two decades. His career includes positions as Assistant Principal of Curriculum, Collegiate Academy Lead, and Assistant Principal for Administration and Athletics across several district schools in Tampa, Florida.
Before returning to Hillsborough County, Hazlett also worked internationally as Principal of The St. Nicholas International School in Da Nang, Vietnam. He holds advanced degrees in education from Nova Southeastern University and the University of Florida, where he maintained a 4.0 GPA during his undergraduate history program.
In a brief statement, Hillsborough County Public Schools acknowledged the arrest:
“We are aware of the situation involving one of our administrators and are cooperating fully with law enforcement. The individual has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. We remain committed to maintaining the integrity and trust of our school communities.”
Parents and faculty at Leto High have expressed shock and concern over the news, as Hazlett was seen as a forward-thinking leader eager to make a positive impact at the school.
No court date has been set yet, and further legal proceedings are expected in the coming days. Authorities have not disclosed whether Hazlett has posted bond or remains in custody.